USCA has installed solar-powered signals

USC Aiken could have installed traditional pedestrian crossing signals at the two entrances to the Convocation Center across the Robert Bell Highway to the main campus.

But that would have created logistical issues, having to install power lines in a wooded area next to one of the access roads and tunnelling underneath it, said Mike Jara, USCA's assistant chancellor for facilities' management.

The crossing signals are there now, but they're solar-powered. A former state quality maintenance engineer with the S.C. Department of Transportation, Jara knew DOT had the technology. He also was familiar with a vendor who provides that kind of lighting.

"It's becoming more and more prevalent," Jara said. "But it has to be the right situation, and every location has to have its own lights. In areas where power is not easily available, it makes a good option."

While the solar panels are more expensive initially, the university won't be paying for electricity. Eventually, Jara said, the solar devices will pay for themselves.

One of the entrances to the Convocation Center is located across from the driveway to Pacer Crossings, the newest residential housing facility. The other entrance is across the street from a pathway behind the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center.

Students and others walking to the Convocation Center have the choice of using the flashing lights. But the option is there at any time, especially for popular shows at the center and for events like spring graduation in May.

"We do have a conceptual drawing for a pedestrian bridge," Jara said. "That would be the best way to protect students, staff and visitors, but funding is tight right now."

Jara's department has completed installation of a solar-paneled emergency outdoor alert system. Scheduled for testing later this month, the system will provide an audible tone and a voice message that can be heard clearly over three speaker arrays - located at the tennis courts, the Public Safety office next to Pacer Downs and the Convocation Center.

Jara said the system can be used for a variety of emergencies - a campus intruder, an active shooter and any kind of severe weather situation that might require evacuation. He and his staff are working with a combination of text and voice messaging programs .

"This will allow students to get a better understanding of what's happening," Jara said. "This is a state-of-the-art system for our campus."

He holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering from the University of Florida and received a master's degree in business education from the University of Phoenix. Jara spent seven years with DOT before taking the USCA position in August 2008.

"I love it here," he said. "It's similar to being a resident maintenance engineer. We've got housekeeping out of this office, along with maintenance, capital projects, grounds maintenance and emergency preparedness. I'm working with Dr. Hallman and (Vice Chancellor) Ginger Hudock. I couldn't ask for any better bosses than that."

Contact Rob Novit at rnovit@aikenstandard.com.